Ingredient review
C12-13 Pareth-5
INCI: C12-13 PARETH-5
A gentle, effective surfactant that helps cleanse and emulsify without stripping the skin.
In plain English
C12-13 Pareth-5 is a mild cleansing ingredient made from a blend of fatty alcohols (from coconut or palm oil) and ethylene oxide. It helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away, leaving skin clean but not overly dry. You'll find it in many gentle cleansers and shampoos.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
C12-13 Pareth-5 is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging C12-13 Pareth-5.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A semi-synthetic surfactant and emulsifier from the 'pareth' family, created by reacting C12-13 fatty alcohols with about 5 units of ethylene oxide. It belongs to a class of non-ionic surfactants known for their mildness.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing oils, dirt, and makeup to be lifted from the skin and suspended in water for easy rinsing. Its non-ionic nature means it works well in a wide range of pH levels and is less likely to irritate than harsher surfactants like SLS.
Pros
Mild on skin
Non-ionic structure means it cleanses effectively without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it suitable for daily use.
Versatile formulator
Works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products, and can be combined with other surfactants to adjust foam and cleansing power.
Cons and cautions
Potential trace contaminant
As an ethoxylated ingredient, it may contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane if not thoroughly purified during manufacturing. Reputable brands ensure low levels.
Sustainability concerns
Often derived from palm oil, which can be linked to deforestation. Look for RSPO-certified or sustainably sourced versions.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Those who prefer sulfate-free or milder cleansing formulas
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients (rare)
- Those seeking 100% natural or plant-derived-only ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
C12-13 Pareth-5 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety consideration is potential trace contamination with 1,4-dioxane, which is regulated and minimized by responsible manufacturers. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential.
Research notes
Studies on similar pareth surfactants show they are mild and effective cleansers with low irritation profiles. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed related ethoxylated alcohols and found them safe as used. No specific long-term human studies on C12-13 Pareth-5 alone are widely published.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. Manufacturers must ensure low 1,4-dioxane levels per ICH guidelines.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable fatty alcohols (often palm or coconut oil). Opt for RSPO-certified palm sources to support sustainable production.
Good to know
- The '5' in the name refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units, which influences its water solubility and mildness.
- C12-13 Pareth-5 is considered biodegradable under standard conditions.
Common questions
What is C12-13 Pareth-5 in beauty products?
C12-13 Pareth-5 is a mild cleansing ingredient made from a blend of fatty alcohols (from coconut or palm oil) and ethylene oxide. It helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away, leaving skin clean but not overly dry. You'll find it in many gentle cleansers and shampoos.
What does C12-13 Pareth-5 do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing oils, dirt, and makeup to be lifted from the skin and suspended in water for easy rinsing. Its non-ionic nature means it works well in a wide range of pH levels and is less likely to irritate than harsher surfactants like SLS.
Is C12-13 Pareth-5 safe for most people?
C12-13 Pareth-5 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety consideration is potential trace contamination with 1,4-dioxane, which is regulated and minimized by responsible manufacturers. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential.
Who should be careful with C12-13 Pareth-5?
Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients (rare) Those seeking 100% natural or plant-derived-only ingredients
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.